Euphonium Concerto - Vladimir Cosma - Euphonium and Piano |
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Returning to the Euphonium Store is the famous Euphonium Concerto by Vladimir Cosma.
This is an epic and majestic euphonium concerto, written very much in a Spanish style, especially the two outer movements.
The middle movement, Andantino, is beautifully reflective and passionate.
One of the most challenging and rewarding solos in the repertoire, this concerto embodies in many ways the spirit of Paganini and Liszt for the euphonium and represents one of the most outstanding selections for euphonium and large ensemble. It features virtuoso technique, intense melody, and a need for panache and flair. The technical and range challenges are formidable, but WELL worth the practice. Of particular note involves the flexibility, clarity, and tone quality needed in the low range from BB-flat to F as there are numerous sections of slurred and tongued passages in these ranges. There is also a strong need for excellent double and triple tonguing as Cosma wrote the final few sections with the violin (his instrument) in mind versus the euphonium, so some of the passages are not as idiomatic as they could be. The Andantino creates an atmosphere mindful of Piazzolla, the famous tango writer. The melody sails with the euphonium. This piece stands at the top of the list of recommended repertoire for those capable. Taking this challenge will be extremely rewarding and the only caveat involves the cost of the large ensemble rental parts (more than $400) and the piano reduction. The publisher has chosen to make these choices and they greatly hinder the wide spread of this fantastic work.
I do feel I should apologise for the cost of this work, as it is very expensive. Since its release, the publishing company Larghetto Music has sought to make this perhaps the highest priced sheet music for euphonium and piano that exists. It is disappointing. Compare this to the price of the Horovitz or Sparke concerti.
Anyway, it's here and if you wish to play it, legally!!, you need to buy it!
Please enjoy this wonderful music
Duration: 23 mins
Difficulty level: 5/6
Supplied with : piano part and solo parts in Tc and BC
Steve has recorded this twice, once with piano, on the World of the Euphonium volume four CD and once with brass band, Bravura CD